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Overall Background Notes:
NA
1. Template. This is an abbreviated planning template to assist in Crisis Action Planning (CAP) for a
Coalition Planning Group (CPG) within a multinational headquarters. It is designed to be a “starting
point” for a multinational task force and can be adapted or refined to meet specific multinational
planning requirements of the nations involved.
2. Reference. This abbreviated template is based directly on the MNF SOP “Military Decision Making
Process – Multinational (MDMP-M) Planning Handbook, dated January 2009 (can be found at
www.mnfsop.com). Consult this handbook for a detailed outline of the planning process steps below
and for the templates for the various planning documents.
3. Time Frames. The time frames below are “only notional” and could be completed in less than 24
hours or be drawn out for weeks or months for a crisis response situation.. This template example
assumes a severely time constrained crisis response using two 12-hour shifts for the CTF staff and
CPG.
4. Commander Involvement. The degree of CCTF direct involvement will vary based upon the situation
and the Lead Nation responsible for the multinational effort (their respective doctrines and practices).
The minimum involvement is noted in this template. It is very possible that some commanders will
require more involvement within the various steps.
STEP 1 - INITIATION AND SCOPING
Day 1
Commander, CTF (CCTF) receives essential strategic guidance, a situation update and initiates his
initial commander’s appreciation and initial operational design development. CCTF identifies and major
information and knowledge gaps; conducts time appreciation review; issues guidance on
battle/operational rhythm establishment, broad readiness guidance for staff and units, and assigns broad
responsibilities and orientation guidance
CDR Scoping
1. CCTF appreciation analysis
and discussion :
> OIPE and CCTF situational
analysis.
> Initial framing of the
problem.(problem framework
identified)
Time as
required
2. Initiation of the ongoing
operational design
development
CCTF
Special: Small Group
NCEs, Dep CCTF,
COS, CTF Primary
Staff and Special Staff;
CTF Components, and
C5 PLANS Chief, C3
FOPS Chief, and C3
COPS Chief
Small
Group
Conf
Room
?????????
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT
OUTPUTS

Shared understanding of
the situation and initial
problem framework

Military end-state is
identified

OIPE summary and brief
distributed to CTF HQ,
NCEs, & components

CDR’s initial framing of the
problem published by C5
PLANS.

Initial CDR’s operational
design published by C5
PLANS

Warning Order #1 issued

Initiate staff estimates
3. Time appreciation review
4. Other supportive CCTF
directions
5. Organizational actions
directed by the CCTF.
**The Staff Estimate process is
initiated as required / directed.
Highlighted and bold
wording in OUTPUTS
indicates a formal planning
document.
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STEP 2 - MISSION ANALYSIS (MA)
07000800
The process and products of mission analysis assist the CCTF, CTF Staff, NCEs, and CTF Component
Cmdrs in refining the shared understanding/knowledge of the problem framework, operational situation,
CTF restated mission, and commander’s intent. They also provide clear identification of the operational
military objectives and supporting effects that allow attainment of the military end state conditions.
Following is understood by the
CPG::
 CCTF’s initial framework of
the problem and initial
operational design
CPG Ldr and
Background Review:
constructs
designated CPG
CPG
attendees
 Warning Order #1 details
Summary of CCTF Scoping
Room
 Military End State
end products; and guidance
Day CPG Team
Conditions (if identified at
this time)
 CCTF mission analysis
guidance
Situational update via the
OIPE (six areas):
Area 1: Political, military,
economic, social, information,
infrastructure, physical and
time (PMESII-PT).
Area 2: Geographical, terrain,
climate and weather factors
Area 3: Threat outlines
(adversary and nonadversary). Permissive,
uncertain, or hostile
environment?
08150900
Area 4: Interests and positions
of regional organizations, IHC,
Red Cross and Red Crescent
organizations.
C2, C5 Area
Specialists, Political
Advisor (POLAD), C7
Civ-Mil Planners
CPG
Room
CPG planners have a
situational update of the CTF’s
AO based on the six areas of
the OIPE.
Designated CPG
attendees
Area 5: Primary actor and
stakeholder within CTF AO
(matrix of roles, missions,
agendas, objectives, and aims)
Area 6: Initial problem
framework identification
(historical and background
causes that have led to present
situation and proposed
problem framework)
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MA Sub-Step 1: Analyze
Higher Hqs Order (Mission and
Intent)
CCTF “initial” risk guidelines
should be given at this time.
10301100
11001130
11301200
13001315
CCTF, NCE, CTF staff.
CTF component liaison
CPG Ldr led
Designated CPG Staff
CPG
Room
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT I
MA Sub-Step 2: Determine
Known Facts, Current Status,
or Conditions.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees
CPG
Room
MA Sub-Step 3: Determine
Own Specified, Implied and
Essential Tasks.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees
CPG
Room
MA Sub-Step 4: Develop
Operational Limitations
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees
CPG
Room
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees
CPG
Room
MA Sub-Step 5: Determine
Assumptions
MA Sub-Step 6: Determine
Military End State Conditions,
Operational Military Objectives,
and Supporting Effects
13151430
Note 1: In many cases the
Military End State Conditions
will be given to the CCTF by
the strategic level. In other
cases the CCTF will determine
and recommend the Military
End State Conditions to the
strategic levels.
OUTPUTS
NCE, CTF Staff, CPG, and
CTF Components understand
higher Hqs mission and intent.
CCTF provides his guidance to
CPG members for the followon mission analysis.
Facts, current status and
conditions of the situation
pertinent to military end state
conditions.
Time appreciation conducted;
time allocated to CTF Hqs and
CTF
CPG determines tasks:
 Specified
 Implied
 Essential
Determine limitations:
 Constraints (dictates an
action)
 Restraints (prohibits an
action)
 Other limitations
Assumptions key for planning
identified (continual review and
refinement from this point on)
CPG determines or reviews the
Military End State Conditions.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
CPG
Room

Determines the supporting
operational military
objectives for each Military
End State Condition.

Determines the major
Supporting Effects for each
supporting operational
military objective
Note: These outputs will be
continually revisited within the
planning process as it
proceeds as additional
understanding of the problem
framework and operational
situation is gained by CTF
planners.
Note 2: The Military End State
Conditions will have been
addressed by the CCTF within
the “Initiation and Scoping”
step; however, a review of
these end state conditions
needs to be conducted to verify
the appropriateness given
detailed mission analysis..
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MA Sub-Step 7: Determine
Friendly and Threat COGs and
Critical Factors.
Note: Enemy Threat COGs are
taken from the C2 OIPE
assessment in “Initiation and
Scoping” step.
MA Sub-Step 8: Analyze
Strategic Communications
Guidance
Note: Simultaneously with Step
9 below
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees, C2 analysts
and Red Team
Information Operations
and Public Affairs Staff
OPT
Reports back to CPG
when completed
CPG
Room
Separate
Planning
Area from
CPG
Room
OUTPUTS
COGs & Critical Factors
identified and Critical Factor
Chart prepared for each
identified COG.
 Critical Capabilities (CC)
 Critical Requirement (CR)
Critical Vulnerabilities (CV)
Identify SC linkages and
requirements for the CTF IO
and Public Affairs planning,
actions, and messages.
NCEs input thoroughly
integrated into CTF IO and
Public Affairs planning, action,
and messages,
Reports back to the CPG as to
results of this analysis.
Review forces that have been
apportioned. Determine
readiness status and
deployment availability in
broad terms.
14301500
MA Sub-Step 9: Conduct an
Initial Force Structure Analysis
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
CPG
Room
Determine broad multinational
force structure requirements
and required capabilities.
Identify shortfalls between the
two.
Remember “stay broad” at this
point in the planning process.
Details will come out of COA
development process.
MA Sub-Step 10: Conduct
Initial Risk Assessment.
15001530
Note: This may require a small
planning group meeting with
the CCTF to fully conduct a
risk assessment.
MA Sub-Step 11: Review and
Confirm Restated Mission and
Develop Commander’s Intent.
15001530
1530-
Note: In the “Initiation and
Scoping” planning step the
CCTF developed an initial
“restated mission” that will be
revisited now based upon
detailed mission analysis.
MA Sub-Step 12: Determine
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
A separate small
planning group
meeting with the
CCTF may be
required.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
CPG
Room
CCTF
office
CPG
Room
Some Cmdrs will want
to write their own
“intent statement”
CPG Ldr and
CPG
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Identify risks to mission
accomplishment and compare
to CCTF’s initial” guidance.
Discuss as required with the
CCTF to support follow-on
mission analysis steps.
CPG confirms / develops:



Restated Mission
Commander’s Intent
Mission Success Criteria
CPG confirms / develops:
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Commander’s Critical
Information Requirements
(CCIRs).
designated CPG
attendees,
Room
OUTPUTS


Critical Friendly Force
Information (FFI)
Priority Intelligence
Requirements (PIRs)
Note: CCIR is continually
updated and revised
throughout the planning and
execution process as the
situation changes.
CRITIAL STEP
16001700
MA Sub-Step 13: Refine and
Update Commander’s
Appreciation (OIPE and
Problem Framework) and
Commander’s Operational
Design
Note: CCTF personal review in
small group is required with
key CPG personnel.
Establishes the base
Operational Design and
Problem Framework for followon COA development.
MA Sub-Step 13: Develop and
Conduct Mission Analysis Brief
PART A: Develop (CPG)
PART B: Conduct (CCTF)
Two
Parts:
Part A:
17001800
Part B
19002000-
Note: Based upon a 12 hour
shift plan using two CPG
teams. The “Day CPG team”
prepares the brief and assists
the CCTF in presenting.
CPG Ldr and small
group designated CPG
attendees
A separate small
planning group
meeting with the
CCTF will be required.
CCTF and Small Group CPG
refines and updates:

CCTF
office
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT IS
CRITICAL IN THIS
STEP I
PART A:
CPG Ldr and small
group prepares brief
PART B:
NCEs, Dep CCTF, COS,
CTF Primary Staff and
Special Staff; CTF
Components, and C5
PLANS Chief, C3 FOPS
Chief, and C3 COPS
Chief
Brief Area
The “Night CPG team” attends
the brief and takes over all
follow-on planning actions
resulting from the brief.
CPG handover conducted
following the Mission Analysis
Brief
Briefing Template:
www.mnfsop.com (MDMP-M
Planning Handbook)
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT I

Commander’s Appreciation
(OIPE and Problem
Framework)
Commanders Operational
Design (Narrative and
Diagram)
** Additional “understanding
and insights” will be gained via
the completed mission analysis
steps above - an update is
required prior to COA
development by the CCTF.
CCTF approves:
 CTF restated mission
 CCTF intent
 Military End State
Conditions
 Operational Military
Objectives
 Updated Commander’s
Appreciation
o OIPE
o Problem
Framework
 Updated Operational
Design (narrative and
diagram)
 Warning Order # 2
CCTF provides:
 Updated planning
guidance for COA
development
Note: This step is
focused on the CCTF’s
dissemination of
planning actions
completed to date with
the formal CTF chain
of command prior to
initiating COA
development.
CPG:

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Disseminates Warning
Order # 2
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STEP 3 - COA DEVELOPMENT
20002100
21002200
Builds upon previous efforts to determine potential solutions (military courses of action - COA) required
to attain the operational military objectives and military end state conditions. Additionally assists
indentifying other types of supportive and cooperative actions required by other elements of national
power and/or other organizations to support and complement military action (government agencies, host
nation, IHC, and other stakeholders – comprehensive approach).
CPG Ldr and
COA Sub-Step 1: Organize
designated CPG
CPG and CTF components
the CPG / COA groups.
attendees,
organized to address COAs
&
CPG and
and fully understands the
COA Sub-Step 2: Review
CTF component
Designated overall planning factors
OIPE, Problem Framework,
planning reps
Rooms
completed to date and
CCTF planning guidance and
CCTF’s COA planning
Night CPG Team
intent, and CCTF’s Operational
guidance
Shift Change
Guidance
COA Sub-Step 3: Develop
Potential Solutions and
Require Capabilities
COA Sub-Step 4: Develop
Mission Statement for each
COA
COA Sub-Step 5: Review
Command and Control Options
22002300
COA Sub-Step 6: Review
Geographic Boundaries.
COA Sub-Step 7: Develop
COA Sketch with Supportive
Narrative
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
C2 Options developed for
support of each COA.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
COA Sub-Step 8: Each COA
reviewed for validity.
Two Parts
COA Sub-Step 9: Each COA
reviewed in their totality for
achieving operational military
objectives.
PART A:
COA
Review
PART B:
Logistic
Estimates
COA Sub-Step 10: Risk
Analysis made for each COA
Geographic boundaries
identified or adjustments to
directed boundaries if
directed within by strategic
headquarters.
COA Sketches and narratives
for each COA.
Each COA:
PART A
23002400
COA statements developed
with supportive capabilities

PART A
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
PART B
Log Planners
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
Log
Planning
Area



PART B

Is it valid?
o Adequate?
o Feasible?
o Acceptable?
o Distinguishable?
o Complete?
Does it fully achieve
operational military
objectives?
Risk Analysis completed?
Log Estimates completed
and integrated into COAs
COAs refined as required
COA Sub-Step 11: Logistic
Staff Estimates
DAY 2
2400-
COA Sub-Step 12: Refine the
COA Narrative Statement and
Sketch
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
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COA Development results
in:
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0100
COA Sub-Step 13: Conduct a
CCTF COA Briefing
COA Sub-Sub Step 14:
Publish the Approved COAs for
follow-on planning.
OUTPUTS
CTF component
planning reps

CCTF
INVOLVEMENT I



Potential Branches and
Sequels identified for
each COA
Refined COA Narrative
Statement and Sketches
CCTF approved COAs for
follow-on planning
Approved COAs
published
STEP 4 - COA ANALYSIS AND GAMING
This step is focused on the separate analysis and gaming of each potential solution (COA) that allows
attainment of the military end state conditions. This step also furthers the shared insights, understanding
and knowledge of the operational environment (problem framework / operational design) and the
potential impacts of CTF actions upon this environment (interactive results and 2 nd/3rd order effects).


Sub-Step 1: Analysis

01000200


Organize CPG, Red Cell,
and Request Appropriate
Staff Estimates
Gather tools, data, and info
Conduct Analysis prior to
gaming of each COA
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
&
Red Cell

CPG and
Designated
Rooms

Sub-Step 2: Gaming

02000400



Determine Gaming Method
o Deliberate Timeline
o Operational Phasing
o Critical Event
o Combination of above
Prepare for Gaming
Conduct Gaming
Analysis and Record
Output of Gaming
Note: Can be table top
(manual), computer assisted,
or combination of these two
approaches.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
&
Red Cell
A separate small
planning group
meeting with the
CCTF may be required
(CCTF discretion)
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
(May break
into
separate
COA
gaming
groups; or
have entire
CPG do
each COA
in order)
533578211
CCTF guidance reviewed
Additional staff estimate
info integrated into each
COA
Planners and Red Cell
fully understand each
COA and have gained
insights into operational
factors
Red Cell have analyzed
from an enemy
perspective and
developed potential
enemy reactions to COAs
Analysis of each COA
conducted separately:
 Reviewed / Discussed
 Insights Gained
 Shared Understanding
and Knowledge
Increased
 Analyzed
 Critical Multinational
Discourse
 Final Analysis
 Recorded
CCTF Briefed
 CCTF Comparison
Criteria / Guidance for
COA Comparison
received
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STEP 5 - COA COMPARISON
This step is focused on identifying the strengths and weaknesses of COAs then ranking the COA
independently based upon CCTF comparison criteria. Then the independent COA rankings are compared
so the COA with the highest probability of success can be selected and developed. In some cases this
process may lead to developing, refining, and regaming additional COAs.
04000600
Sub-Step 1:Each COA is
reviewed separately IAW
CCTF Comparison Criteria /
Guidance and ranked
Comparison Sub-Step 2:
COA rankings are compared.
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
&
Red Cell
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
COA are:
 Ranked separately
 Ranking are compared
and recorded
 Analyzed and
Reviewed
 Best COA determined
Day CPG Shift
Change (0600)
06000900
Sub-Step 3: Small Group
Commander’s Review Session
 Optional – But
recommended
 CCTF, NCEs, and CTF
Component CDR’s Review
of Gaming and
Comparison
Note: The time frame of this
step may be extended to fully
incorporate a full gaming of
COAs by the CTF
commanders.

CCTF led analysis with
NCEs and CTF
Component Cmdrs
Selected CPG and
Red Cell supports
Designated
Commander
Room
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT I
CTF Commander’s
Review Results in:
o CDR review of
gaming and analysis
o Multinational
discourse of gaming
and analysis
o Best COA determined
o Furthers shared
insights,
understanding and
knowledge
STEP 6 - COA APPROVAL AND COMMANDER’S ESTIMATE
This step is focused on COA Recommendation briefing and then development of the Commander’s
Estimate for forwarding to the Supported Strategic Commander and Supporting Strategic Commanders.
COA Briefing Presented
09001200

Sub-Step 1: Recommend
COA Briefing Presented

Sub-Step 2: CCTF’s
Commander’s Estimate
CCTF
NCEs, Dep CCTF,
COS, CTF Primary
Staff and Special Staff;
CTF Components, and
C5 PLANS Chief, C3
FOPS Chief, and C3
COPS Chief
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT I
Designated
Briefing
Room for
Brief
CDR
Estimate
reviewed in
CCTF office
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CCTF Selects COA
CCTF Commander’s
Estimate Prepared and
Approved by CCTF
Commander’s Estimate
forwarded to Supported
Strategic Commander and
Supporting Strategic
Commander; critical
capabilities to CTF
Component Cmdrs.
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STEP 7 – PLANS / ORDERS DEVELOPMENT
This step focuses on the development of the detailed concept of operations and the main parts of the
plan or order; developing supporting plans and annexes; conducting Rehearsal of Concept (ROC) drills
to exercise and refine the plan or order; and forwarding of a plan or order to the Supported Strategic
Commander and Supporting Strategic Commander’s for review and approval. This step can focused on
one of two planning products:

Development of an operational plan (OPLAN) that is ready for execution (but is not time sensitive
and is not focused on immediate execution) and requires approval by higher headquarters.
o OPLANs are transitioned to OPORDs (see below bullet) when they are required to be executed.
In crisis situations that span several weeks or months, an OPLAN will normally be developed
in anticipation of “possible” execution of multinational military operations.

Review of
the CDR’s
Estimate
(Step 6)
by
strategic
levels
1200 to
2400).
Development of an operations order (OPORD) that is an execution order (that is time sensitive)
and requires approval and an execute order (EXORD) by higher headquarters for implementation.
Normally, crisis action response situations will focus on the development of an OPORD for
“immediate” execution.
Note: It is assumed that the
Supported Strategic Commander
and the Lead Nation National
Authorities take 12 hours to
review and approve the CCTF’s
recommended COA for follow-on
planning.
During this time, the CTF staff will
be conducting parallel planning
with the strategic levels and CTF
components.
The formal start of Step 7
Plans/Orders commences upon
receipt of approval for planning
a specific COA (see next column
for details).
See following page for the first
formal sub-step for plans/orders
development.
Supported Strategic
Commander
Supporting Strategic
Commanders
review and then
forward to the
Lead Nation
National Authorities
One of the following formal
planning directives is
received by the CCTF to
formally initiate Step 7:
1. PLANORD
2. ALERTORD
1. A Planning
Order (PLANORD)
may be issued (in
lieu of an Alert
Order) by the
strategic military
levels to initiate
specific COA
planning (without
Lead Nation Nat
Auth approval) in
severely time
constrained
situations (will still
need Nat Auth
approval for
execution of a
specific COA).
2. An Alert Order
(ALERTORD) is
issued when the
Lead Nation Nat
Auth has approved
a COA for planning
(still need approval
for execution from
Nat Auth)
Higher
Strategic
HQs
and
Lead Nation
National
Authorities
Planning
locations
3. Other Multinational
Directives formally
authorizing the CCTF to plan
for a specific COA (message,
directive, etc).
Note 1: Terminology for the
above planning documents
may differ within multinational
operations; however, the
intent of the documents is
basically the same.
Some form of FORMAL
authorization must be
received by the CCTF for
initiation of formal planning
for a specific COA.
-
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Note 2: Some initial
deployment of multinational
forces may begin during this
phase to Initial Staging Bases
/ Forward Mounting Bases;
and/or to crisis areas.
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OUTPUTS
. Night CPG Shift
Change
(1800)
DAY 3
0001 –
1200
(Note:
This
action
takes time
to plan,
coord,
and
prepare)
CCTF
needs
some
level of
engagement) in
details of
the
CONOPS
During
this time
Sub-Step 1: Detailed Concept of
Operations Development




Detailed CONOP
development
Broad arrangement of force
flow to support CONOP
begins
CTF component parallel
planning
CCTF CONOP small group
planning meeting conducted.
Sub-Step 2: Detailed Plans /
Orders / Supporting Annexes
Development (done in parallel
with Sub-Step 1 above)
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
CPG Ldr and
designated CPG
attendees,
&
CTF component
planning reps
&
Red Cell
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT
Detailed CONOP developed
via small group
planning meeting
CONOP reviewed with CCTF
CTF Staff and CTF
component staffs
develop
Supporting Annexes
Note:
Plan
sufficient
time for
planning,
coord,
and
conduct of
ROC
Drills
18002400
Note:
Plan
Sub-Step 3: Conduct Rehearsal
of Concept (ROC) Drills




CCTF and CTF commanders
exercise and refine plans
NCEs and Component Cmdrs
involvement is critical
Primary CTF Staff participate
Planning and coordination is
conducted parallel with ROC
Drills as lessons are learned
Sub-Step 4: Finalization of
plans/orders and forwarding to
the Supported Strategic
Commander for review and
CONOP approved by CCTF
Follow-on Planning Guidance
from CCTF
Supporting Plans and
Annexes Prepared.
(refer to pages 14 to
20 at the end of this
planning template
for the various
Annexes for an
OPLAN / OPORD
CTF Staff
and CTF
component
staffs
Day CPG Shift
Change
(0600)
12001800
CDR
CONOPS
reviewed in
CCTF office
CCTF
NCEs, Dep CCTF,
COS, CTF Primary
Staff and Special
Staff; CTF
Components, and
C5 PLANS Chief,
C3 FOPS Chief, and
C3 COPS Chief
Coordinated CONOPS and
Plan is finalized with CDTF
and CTF component cmdrs
Designated
Rooms
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT
Commanders increase their
shared insights,
understanding, and
knowledge of the operational
setting and mission.
CTF and CTF
component staff
observe
CPG leads and
manages
CPG and
Designated
Rooms
CTF and CTF
component staffs
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Approved CCTF OPLAN or
OPORD is forwarded to
Supported Strategic
Commander
B 2 B 4 A-12
TIME
sufficient
time for
final prep
of plan /
order
EVENT
CTF CRISIS ACTION PLANNING CPG TIMELINE
KEY PERSONNEL
LOC
approval.




finalize detailed
annexes
CTF Hq staff finalizes details
of plan/order
CTF components are
finalizing their plan/order
Plan/Order reviewed in detail
for:
o Adequacy
o Feasibility
o Acceptability
o Completeness
o Compliance with
multinational strategic
guidance
o Achieves military end
state condition
CCTF approves plan/order for
forwarding to higher hqs.
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT
CTF
component
hqs
locations
OUTPUTS
CTF component commands
continue detailed planning
actions
.
Night CPG Shift
Change
(1800)
STEP 8: EXECUTION, ASSESSMENT, AND FOLLOW-ON
ADAPTATION
Day 4
This step begins when the Lead Nation National Authorities determine that military action is required
based upon strategic consultation and coordination with participating nations and with applicable
international organizations (UN, regional organizations, etc.). The National Strategic level and
Supported Strategic Commander has issued an Execute Order (EXORD). This step focuses on the
execution, assessment, and follow-on adaptation of CTF military actions.
Note: For this planning
template it is assumed that the
Supported Strategic
Commander and the Lead
Nation National Authorities
take up to six (6) hours to
complete their review of the
OPORD (time sensitive crisis).
00010600
06001200

During this time the CTF
components will be
completing their detailed
planning actions.
 Additionally, CTF staff and
CTF components will be in
constant contact ensuring
planning and coordination
for execution is finalized.
 Detailed initial execution
actions coordinated.
Sub-Step 1: CTF EXORD to
CTF Components is published


Operational
synchronization actions are
initiated
CCTF, CTF staff, and CTF
Supported Strategic
Commander
&
Supporting Strategic
Commanders
Review
Forwards to the Lead
Nation National
Authorities for review
and approval
Participation varies by
event and level of
coordination
Locations
as required
OPLAN is approved by Lead
Nation National Authorities
EXORD issued to CCTF
EXORD issued by CCTF
Locations
as required
CPG manages overall
actions
Operational synchronization
conducted
Finalization of detailed
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B 2 B 4 A-13
TIME
EVENT




CTF CRISIS ACTION PLANNING CPG TIMELINE
KEY PERSONNEL
LOC
components coordination
continues in preparation for
execution
Crosswalks of the CTF
plans with the CTF
components
CTF components conducts
“component back briefs” to
the CCTF following
crosswalks
Plans refined and updated
Conduct rehearsals at all
levels
OUTPUTS
coordination and planning in
support of initial execution
actions
CPG passes EXORD
to C3 FOPS for
finalization
Crosswalk of CTF Hq plans
with CTF component plans
C3 COPS issues the
EXORD
Final refinement and updating
of plans as required
C3 FOPS manages
CTF component cdrs
back briefs to CCTF
Rehearsals conducted
Rehearsals conducted
at all levels as required
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT I
Day CPG Shift
Change
(0600)
1200
Sub-Step 2: D Day / H Hour –
CTF Execution Actions begins.
CCTF, NCEs, and CTF
Component Cmdrs
As required
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT
CTF Headquarters and CTF
Components initiate
execution of OPORD.
Sub-Step 3: Assessment of
Execution Actions

As
required
based
upon
crisis
response
situational
factors



Establishment of CTF Hq
Assessment
Organizations:
o Coalition / Combined
Assessment Cell
(CAC)
o Coalition / Combined
Assessment Working
Group (CAWG)
o Coalition / Combined
Assessment Board
(CAB)
MOPs as applicable
MOEs as applicable
CCTF Decision Cycle
Executed
Multinational
Command Center (MCmdC)
CTF staff and CTF
component staffs.
As required
All CTF commanders
CTF plans and orders are
updated, refined, and
adjusted based upon the CTF
command’s interaction with
the operational setting and
problem framework; and the
resultant “learning and
adapting” by the CTF
command.
Branches and Sequels are
updated, refined, and
adjusted.
CCTF
INVOLVEMENT
Branches and Sequels
executed as required.
Note: Refer to MNF SOP
(www.mnfsop.com for CTF
Assessment Processes.
533578211
B 2 B 4 A-14
TIME
EVENT
CTF CRISIS ACTION PLANNING CPG TIMELINE
KEY PERSONNEL
LOC
OUTPUTS
C5 Plans (PLANS)
Plans and Orders are
updated and refined as the
operational setting and
planning framework changes
as the CTF interacts with the
crisis response situation
PLANS – Future Plans and
Sequels (14 days and
beyond)
C3 Future Ops
(FOPS)
As
Required
Sub-Step 4: Planning During
Execution
C3 Current Ops
(COPS)
As Required
Multinational
Command Center
(M-CmdC)
FOPS – Current Phase
Planning and Branches (5 to
14 Days)
COPS – Current Operations
Monitoring and Management
(0 to 4 Days)
Note: Time parameters are a
“start point” only and are
situational dependant. They
are not fixed for all situations.
ENDING STEP:
ACHIEVEMENT OF MILITARY END STATE CONDITIONS
OR OTHER ACTIONS
End of
Crisis
Achievement of military end state conditions. The CTF planning process is completed for a given
operation once: (1) The military end state conditions have been achieved; (2) Transition of operations is
conducted with the host nation (or another multinational command or international organization such as
the UN – UN led operation); and, (3) Redeployment of CTF forces have been completed. Termination
of operations can occur during any of the MDMP-M planning steps above.
> Termination Criteria. The operational design element of termination is used for determining if the
military end state conditions have been achieved. Termination criteria will normally closely parallel the
military end state conditions but will be more situationally oriented in sufficient detail to support
end state condition achievement.
> Multinational Guidance. It is possible that military action may be ended before the military end state
conditions have been achieved due to political or diplomatic considerations and guidance. The CCTF
and planners simply must be flexible and maintain close / continuous coordination with the Supported
Strategic Commander and with NCEs representing nations within the CTF command.
533578211
B 2 B 4 A-15
OPLAN / OPORD
Matrix
Purpose: Listed below is a OPLAN/OPORD Matrix that lists all of the various Annexes that support a multinational
operation.

The exact Annexes and supporting document requirements for an OPLAN/OPORD will vary between situation
and in multinational commands. On one spectrum, only some Annexes may be required for a Humanitarian
Assistance / Disaster Relied mission; however, on the other spectrum, a complex Small Scale Contingency
may require all of the Annexes.

Additionally, the exact names of the Annexes may vary between Lead Nations’ military forces in different
multinational operations; however, the intent of the Annexes is similar.

It should also be noted at the initial states of a Crisis Response situation, some Annexes may be lacking in
details since many of the details of the situation will be unknown. However, as the CTF command interacts
with the operational setting and the problem frameworks, and the CTF learns and gains operational knowledge
during execution, updates and revisions to the original OPORD and Annexes should bring out the details
required to achieve the military end state conditions.
(Continued on following page)
533578211
B 2 B 4 A-16
Annex or Appendix
Title Page
Letter of Transmittal
Classification Instructions
Security Instruction and Record of Change
Plan Summary
Table of Contents
Basic Plan
Annex A Task Organization
Appendix 1 Time Phase Force and Deployment List
Appendix 2 Shortfall Identification
Appendix 3 Force Module Identification
Appendix 4 Deterrent Options
Appendix 5 Reserve Component Requirements
Summary
Annex B Intelligence
Appendix 1 Priority Intelligence Requirements
Appendix 2 Signals Intelligence
Tab A Communications Intelligence Collections
Requirements
Tab B Operations Electronic Intelligence
Requirements
Appendix 3 Counterintelligence
Tab A Counterintelligence Target List
Tab B Multidiscipline Counterintelligence Threat
Report
Tab C Designation of Theater CI Executive
Agency
Appendix 4 Targeting Intelligence
Tab A Target List (Conventional)
Appendix 5 Human-Resource Intelligence
Tab A HUMINT Operations Cell Operations
Tab B EPW/Civilian Detainees
Appendix 6 Intelligence support to Command and
Control Warfare
Appendix 7 Imagery Intelligence
Appendix 8 Measurement and Signature Intelligence
Appendix 9 Capture Enemy Equipment
Tab A Specified Prioritized Intelligence
Collection Requirements
Tab B Equipment Releasable for Operations
Purposes
Appendix 10 National Intelligence Support Team
Appendix 11 Intelligence Estimate
Appendix 12 Intelligence Products
Appendix 13 Intelligence Collection Plan
Appendix 14 Surveillance and Reconnaissance Plan
Appendix 15 Geospatial Intelligence
Appendix 16 Intelligence Operations
Appendix 17 Support to Survival, Evasion,
Resistance, and Escape
Annex C Operations
Appendix 1 Nuclear Operations
Staff Assignment
C5
C5
C5
C5
C5
C5
C5
C5
C3/5
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C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C2
C3
C3
B 2 B 4 A-17
Annex or Appendix
Appendix 2 Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical
Defense Operations
Appendix 3 Information Operations/Command and
Control Warfare
Tab A Military Deception
Tab B Electronic Warfare
Tab C Operations Security
Tab D Psychological Operations
Tab E Physical Destruction
Appendix 4 Special Operations
Appendix 5 Evasion and Recovery Operations
Appendix 6 Rules of Engagement
Appendix 7 Reconnaissance
Appendix 8 Air Base Operability
Appendix 9 Combat Camera
Tab A COMCAM Customer Support
Requirements
Appendix 10 Noncombatant Evacuation Operations
Appendix 11 Escape and Evasion Operations
Appendix 12 Counterattack
Appendix 13 Explosive Ordnance Disposal
Appendix 14 Amphibious Operations
Tab A Advance Force Operations
Tab B Embarkation Plan
Tab C Landing Plan
Tab D Rehearsal Plan
Tab E CSS Control Agencies Plan
Appendix 15 Force Protection
Tab A Combating Terrorism
Tab B Physical Security
Tab C Base Defense
Appendix 16 Rear Area Operations
Appendix 17 Aviation Operations
Appendix 18 Operations Overlay
Appendix 19 Fire Support
Tab A Air Fire Plan
Tab B Artillery Fire Plan
Tab C Naval Surface Fire Support Plan
Tab D Chemical Fire Plan
Tab E Targeting
Tab F Fire Support Coordination Plan
Appendix 20 Countermechanized Plan
Appendix 21 Breaching Plan
Appendix 22 Obstacle Plan
Annex D Logistics
Appendix 1 Petroleum, Oils, and Lubricants Supply
Appendix 2 Mortuary Affairs
Appendix 3 Sustainability Analysis
Appendix 4 Mobility and Transportation
Tab A En Route Support Requirements
Tab B Reception and Onward Movement
Annex or Appendix
Staff
Assignment
C3
C3(IO)
C3(IO)
C3(IO)
C3(IO)
C3(IO)
C3(IO)
C3
C-3/SJA
C3
C3
C3/GCE
C3/GCE
C3/GCE
C3/GCE
C3(FP)
C3(FP)
C3(FP)
C3(FP)
MACE
C3(Air)
C3
C3(Fires)
C3(Fires)
C3(Fires)
C3(Fires)
C3(Fires)
C3(Fires)
C3/C4(Engr)
C3/C4(Engr)
C4
C4
C4
C4
Staff
Assignment
Appendix 5 Civil Engineering Support Plan
533578211
B 2 B 4 A-18
Appendix 6 Nonnuclear Ammunition
Tab A Munitions Matrix
Appendix 7 Supply
Appendix 8 Services
Appendix 9 Health Services
Appendix 10 Aviation Logistic Support
Appendix 11 External Support
Appendix 12 Maintenance
Appendix 13 General Engineering
Annex E Personnel
Appendix 1 EPWs, Civilian Internees, and Other
Detained Persons
Appendix 2 Processing of Formerly Captured,
Missing, or detained CTF Personnel
Appendix 3 Finance and Disbursing
Appendix 4 Legal
Appendix 5 Military Postal Offices
Tab A Aerial Mail Terminals
Tab B Military Post Offices
Appendix 6 Chaplain Activities
Tab A Inter-Service Chaplain Support
Tab B Host Nation Religious Support
Tab C Command-Staff Chaplain Relationships
Annex F Public Affairs
Appendix 1 Personnel Requirements for JIB and
Sub-JIB
Appendix 2 Equipment and Support Requirements
for JIB and Sub-JIB
Appendix 3 General Ground Rules for the Media
Appendix 4 Multinational Media Pool
Annex G Civil Affairs
Annex H Meteorological and Oceanographic Ops
Annex J Command Relationships
Appendix 1 Command Relationships Diagram
Annex K Command, Control and Communications
Systems
Appendix 1 Information Systems Security
Appendix 2 Defensive Information Warfare
Appendix 3 Communications Planning
Appendix 4 Satellite Communications Support
Tab A UHF SATCOM Network List
Tab B SHF SATCOM Network List
Tab C EHF SATCOM Network List
Annex L Environmental Considerations
Annex M Geospatial Information and Services
Appendix 1 Geospatial Information and Services List
Annex N Space Operations
Annex P Host-Nation Support
Appendix 1 List of Host-Nation Support Agreements
Annex Q Medical Services
Appendix 1 Joint Medical Regulating System
Appendix 2 Joint Blood Program
Appendix 3 Hospitalization
Appendix 4 Patient Evacuation
Annex or Appendix
Appendix 5 Returns to Duty
Appendix 6 Medical Logistics (Class 8A) System
C4
C4
C4
C4
C4
C4
C4
C4
C4
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
C1
PAO
PAO
PAO
PAO
4TH CAG
C2
C5
C5
C6
C6
C6
C6
C6
C6
C6
C6
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
Staff Assignment
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
533578211
B 2 B 4 A-19
Appendix 7 Preventive Medicine
Appendix 8 Medical Command, Control, and
Communications
Appendix 9 Host-Nation Medical Support
Appendix 10 Medical Sustainability Assessment
Appendix 11 Medical Intelligence Support to
Military Operations
Appendix 12 Veterinary Medicine
Appendix 13 Medical Planning Responsibilities and
Task Identification
Annex S Special Technical Operations
Annex U Information Management
Annex W Aviation Operation
Appendix 1 Air Defense/Antiair Warfare
Appendix 2 Offensive Air Support
Appendix 3 Assault Support
Appendix 4 Reconnaissance and Surveillance Plan
Appendix 5 Supplementary Air Operations
Appendix 6 Aircraft Armament
Appendix 7 Air Control
Appendix 8 Air Communications
Appendix 9 Air Movement Plan/Flight Ferry
Appendix 10 Aircraft Schedules
Appendix 11 Air Tasking
Annex X Execution Checklist
Annex Z Distribution
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C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
C4 (MED)
C3
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C3(Air)
C5
C5
B 2 B 4 A-20